A practical guide to South Africa

National holidays and celebrations

The majority of the South African population is Christian, so they celebrate many of the same festivals as we do in the UK. In addition there are a number of national holidays of cultural and historical significance.

If you're not sure when is the best time to travel, have a chat with one of our travel advisers who can help you make the most of South Africa's many and varied cultural experiences.

Non religious public holidays

New Year's Day: 1st January

Human Rights Day: 21st March

Family Day: Last day of Easter break

Freedom Day: 27th April

Workers' Day: 1st May

Youth Day: 16th June

National Women's Day: August bank holiday

Heritage Day: 24th September

Day of Reconciliation: 16th December

Day of Goodwill: 26th December

Religious public holidays

Good Friday: Friday before Easter

Easter Sunday: Varies each year

Christmas Day: 25th December

Money and currency

The official currency in South Africa is the rand (R), which comes in easily identifiable notes and coins. The rate with the British pound fluctuates constantly so it's a good idea to check before you travel. Nevertheless, the exchange rate is usually favourable, making South Africa a relatively cheap destination for UK travellers.

You should have very little trouble changing British pounds at most banks upon arrival. ATMs are also widely available in most towns and cities but check with your bank that your card will work beforehand.

In all inclusive resorts you won't need as much cash but it's always a good idea to take some for tipping and emergencies.

Eating out

As with everything in South Africa, the food varies depending on where you are in the country. Most cities, like Cape Town and Durban, will have a huge choice of fine dining eateries and local delicacies to choose from, including some excellent seafood.

Sample the 'biltong', a traditional dried meat similar to jerky in the U.S. The local 'bobotie' is often described as South African moussaka and made with mince and spices topped with baked egg. And don't forget to try some of the delicious domestic wines.

Climate

As diverse as the people and wildlife it is home to, in South Africa the weather depends on where you are located and what time of year you visit. It can range from sunshine-filled skies in the south west to sub-tropical storms in the north west plateau. The weather in South Africa is always exciting, but you can usually expect a healthy dose of sunshine whenever you visit.

Summer season is from October through to February and winter is May to July, due to its southern hemisphere location.

It's a relatively dry country, with the Western Cape region receiving the least rainfall each year.

UK autumn is considered the best time to go as most of South Africa experiences virtually no rainfall and warmer temperatures during this period.

South Africa News

A recent article in Luxury Travel Magazine outlines the highlights of taking holidays in Johannesburg. The article focuses largely on the vibrant artistic scene in South Africa's "City of Gold" and gives some noteworthy recommendations of the top must see sites in the city including Maboneng and the Soweto township.

From the best food and drinks to fashion, the arts and surfing, Durban locals describe some of their favourite locations to sample what the city has to offer. Noted as an “alternative guide” to traditional guidebooks, residents give their own personal advice on visiting this unique South African tourist destination.

The &Beyond Ngala Safari Lodge has reopened to guests in South Africa, following a US$2 million refurbishment programme. Located on a private game reserve on the border of the Kruger National Park, the lodge's 20 thatched cottages have all been renovated and expanded to offer outdoor showers, and a new rim flow swimming pool has been added to the property that gives views of local wildlife at the watering hole.